FOXBORO, Mass. Ã‚Â· The New England Patriots did not exercise their option on running back Antowain Smith, making the team's best runner an unrestricted free agent.

A seven-year veteran, Smith signed a five-year, $22 million dollar deal with the Patriots in March 2002 after helping the team win the Super Bowl after the 2001 season.

"In his three seasons with the Patriots, Antowain played a significant role in our team's overall success," Patriots coach Bill Belichick said in a statement. "He is a true professional. On behalf of the entire organization, we wish him continued success in the future."

nick1

02-09-2004, 06:25 PM

Originally posted by jbond
Pats decline Smith's option

FOXBORO, Mass. Ã‚Â· The New England Patriots did not exercise their option on running back Antowain Smith, making the team's best runner an unrestricted free agent.

A seven-year veteran, Smith signed a five-year, $22 million dollar deal with the Patriots in March 2002 after helping the team win the Super Bowl after the 2001 season.

&quot;In his three seasons with the Patriots, Antowain played a significant role in our team's overall success,&quot; Patriots coach Bill Belichick said in a statement. &quot;He is a true professional. On behalf of the entire organization, we wish him continued success in the future.&quot;

thats no surprise since NE is going to draft a RB who is already going to be better then A. Smith will ever be.